Best RJ45 Crimper | Reviews & Buying Guide

Contents show

Walts DIY is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you.

Our RJ45 crimper reviews are based on real-world experiences. We know you’re tired of reading dry product descriptions that don’t include any information about how the tool performs in a real-world setting, so our team has tested and reviewed the five best RJ45 crimpers currently available today.

The RJ45 Crimper is one of the most popular and versatile tools available for networking professionals. You can use them to terminate cables, crimp connectors, pull wire through conduit or a wall, attach faceplates onto wires, and even strip cable jackets.

Some people think that with the high-speed connections we have these days, Ethernet crimping is a thing of the past. They’re wrong, though, because Ethernet cables are made to be durable and last, which means any compromised installation can cause disconnections in your system.

An RJ45 crimper is a highly specialized kit and an essential tool for anyone involved in network engineering. You’d struggle to connect an Ethernet cable without one!

They work by puncturing the insulation of the network cable and fixing it into the RJ45 connectors, therefore allowing a connection between the copper wire and connector. There’s a nack to using them, but they are not limited to just professionals. They’re much more commonplace than ever, and a DIY’er could quickly learn to use one.

The biggest problem is the choice available, which can lead to indecision or purchasing one that is way too expensive for the users’ needs. We’ve tested and reviewed 5 of the best RJ45 Crimp tools on the market. One we assigned our Best Overall and another our Best Value pick. To make life easier for you, we’ve placed all 5 in an easy-to-read comparison table and have written a detailed buyers guide so you can assess your needs.

Here’s a rundown of what we’ll talk about in our best RJ45 Crimp tools article:

First, we show you our top-rated models in an easy-to-follow comparison table
Next, we take an in-depth look at each model and pull out their features and benefits you’ll find useful
Then, we’ll take a look at any drawbacks you might need to know
And finally, we provide you with some extra information about what to look for in an RJ45 Crimper so you can buy the right model

Sound great? Let’s get to it!

RJ45 Crimpers

Comparison of our Favorite RJ45 Crimpers:

CLICK any image to check Ratings & Reviews on Amazon

Image	Model	Price	Walts Rating
Top	Platinum Tools EZ-Rjpro	Check Price	4.9 / 5 (Best Overall)
	PETECHTOOL RJ45 Crimper Tool	Check Price	4.7 / 5 (Best Value)
	TRENDnet	Check Price	4.2 / 5
	UbiGear	Check Price	3.2 / 5
	Klein Tools VDV226-110	Check Price	4.5 / 5

5 Best RJ45 Crimper Reviews

1. Platinum Tools EZ-Rjpro RJ45 Crimper (Best Overall)

**Best Overall**

Prevent costly mistakes and time-consuming trips back to the job site by ensuring uniform cable termination every time. The patented crimp and trim system delivers clean cuts with precision for all EZ Connectors, providing an optimal connection that looks great from any angle.
With its ratcheted, high leverage design for extreme performance, you'll make quick work of those heavy gauge cables, making it easy to confidently connect two or more wires in one efficient motion. Plus, with a full surface-to-surface contact design that applies even crimp forces across all wiring configurations and sizes-even round wire!
The Platinum Tools 100054C Clamshell EZ-Rjpro HD Crimp Tool will make the task of crimping work and play. This top-of-the-line wire stripper is precise and durable, eliminating breakage or fraying at crimp points and providing unmatched flexibility for variations in wire size.
This RJ45 crimping tool is designed specifically to handle larger-sized cables, RJ11, RJ12 & RJ45 modular plugs, CAT5 cable, CAT6 cable, and CAT5e and CAT6 connectors.
The steel die heads and frame deliver solid connections while the patented crimp and trim system provides uniform brass contacts to make every double insulation termination look like it came off a production line. There are many reasons why this modular crimper is a superior cable stripper tool but without words, there is only one explanation: buy it!

Buy on Amazon

Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.

Pros & Cons

Pros

Sturdy
FCC compliant terminations
Reliable

Cons

Pricey

2. PETECHTOOL RJ45 Crimper Tool (Best Value)

**Best Value**

Crimp tools like this one are necessary for producing reliable connections between cable ends and connectors without damaging delicate wires inside so you know your networks safe from all sorts of mysterious problems that could crop up at any moment.
Crimping RJ45 connectors to make sure wires can't touch each other is easy with this Petechtool RJ-45 crimper tool kit. If you are using a high-quality cable tester, there's no reason for your Ethernet wiring not to be perfect and secure!
Plus, the end of this crimping tool easily trims any excess connector so it will lay flat against the side of whatever device it is installed in rather than sticking out. This prevents unintended contact between the conductors and potential interference or damage that can come from a loose connector touching neighboring cables during operation.
Its compact design is 2/3rds the size of traditional tools weighs 1/3 lighter than traditional pliers, and saves on labor time because it's faster to use.
The precision dies ensures that there are no frayed wire ends when connecting wires; plus its gearless cut strips for precise lengths every time. There are also replaceable blades available for this kit. The high-quality steel blades offer durability as well as being corrosion resistant.
It also has replaceable blades available for this kit. This lets you change the blade without having to spend more money on a new crimper tool in case one becomes dull or broken.
The Pass-Thru Modular Wire Crimper Tool Kit is the latest in crimping, cutting, stripping, and crimping tool kits. With a fast and reliable modular design styled for RJ45 connector plugs that guarantee superior performance on paired-conductor data cables without any unintended contact between conductors, this all-in-one satisfying wire rigger will electrify your day with only one pass.
The crimp tool kit includes compatible RJ45 plug and modular connectors from CAT5e through CAT6A as well as ratchet wire stripping tools. It simplifies operations by reducing labor-intensive time requirements for connecting cable ends to contacts with more precision than conventional connector termination methods.
This is a great tool that enables you to cut, strip, and crimp for 8P RJ45 connector plugs. The crimp tool is laser milled and the cutting blade is very sharp and easily replaced.

Buy on Amazon

Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:

Pros & Cons

Pros

Great design
Cuts pins 1 and 8
Toll-free support

Cons

Limited to RJ45, Cat6, Cat5 & Cat5e

3. TRENDnet RJ45 Crimper Tool

Do you need to crimp cables like RJ-45 and RJ-12 plugs? Well, now you can with TRENDnet Crimping Tool! This all-steel construction tool features two modular plug connector crimpers for 8P/RJ-45 and 6P/RJ-12 plugs - also include a built-in cutter and stripper too. This is perfect for work or home use where you need to work on a flat cable.
It also has a built-in cutter and stripper to minimize the chance of a stranded wire, all-steel construction for long-term durability, a compact size that is easy to handle, a ratchet mechanism to keep the tool closed when not in use, and a 1-year limited warranty.
If your budget or usage needs mean paying top dollar for a crimper like the Platinum Tools model is a deal-breaker, TRENDnet could have a solution for you.
An issue to be aware of is with the locking device. It's on a ratchet and it tends to get in the way and may cause damage to the tab or not allow you to crimp sufficiently. If this happens to you, just check that area first.
All in all, this is the right tool for a DIYer that needs to work with an RJ12 connector and smaller cables. It has a 1-year warranty and is well-priced for its purpose.

Buy on Amazon

Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:

Pros & Cons

Pros

Great value
Perfect for DIYers

Cons

Poor ratchet design
Unsuitable for heavy-duty work

4. UbiGear Crimper

It's frustrating when your internet cable isnt working, so sometimes you have the unenviable task to figure out which connector is faulty and test cables. Fortunately, this UbiGear Network Tester helps identify gaps in cabling by quickly confirming whether all cables are properly connected.
The UbiGear Tester and RJ45 Crimper are designed to help you look like a pro. With this handy device, you can even fix your LAN cable! No need for professional assistance: Simply insert the cable into either one of its pre-crimped connectors, attach it to the crimping tool, and voila, problem solved!
The LED lights will flash in the rotation if all the wires are properly connected - no more guessing games. Best of all? This self-contained kit comes with 100 modular plugs and a wire stripper for free.
This UbiGear is a complete kit including the crimping tool, 100 modular plugs, and, cable tester. The crimping tool is what we tested and we were drawn to the value the kit provided, hence it made our list.
The crimper works on RJ11, RJ12, RJ22, and RJ45 cables BUT you do get what you pay for with this kit. The crimping tool is totally fine for the occasional use but the RJ45 connectors are junk.
The cynical side of us thinks this is why they supply a cable tester too as the connectors have slightly wider guides allowing 2 wires to occupy the same pin. If you have one or two small jobs to complete around the house, this will work fine. But, any more use than that and itll be recommended to buy a better model.

Buy on Amazon

Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:

Pros & Cons

Pros

Great for occasional use
Cheap

Cons

Poor quality
Unreliable connections
Not Pass-Thru

5. Klein Tools VDV226-110

Featuring a modular crimp connector installation tool for voice and data applications, the Klein Tools VDV226-110 Wire Crimper is a durable all-in-one tool you can use to trim 4, 6, and 8 positions modular connectors.
This wire stripper will not only categorize your cables by type but help simplify any DIY project with its installing capacity of Pass-Thru RJ45 connector plugs. It enables you to eliminate unintended contact between conductors while adding robust strength by crimping 4, 6, and 8 position modular connectors.
Klein Tools has been designed with the everyday user in mind. This wire crimper is a safe, reliable solution to your wiring woes! These are exceptionally well-suited for jobs with various types of cables.
From ordinary everyday home use connections up to more complicated heavy-duty installation connecting 28-22 AWG flat or round solid and stranded wires, this tool will serve you perfectly!
The makers of Klein have supplied replacement parts that will keep your tool going strong through high demand/high usage hours too which bears mentioning; it's about using tools so they last as long as possible!
An issue we found with this tool is it's not the best at cutting wire for Pin 1 or Pin 8. This is the only drawback we found on this tool, but for some, that may mean a frustrating time using it. Imagine having to put it down to get another tool to cut the wires! Cutting wires for crimping into connectors is a skill and sadly it's hit and miss whether this model will work.

Buy on Amazon

Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:

Pros & Cons

Pros

Durable
Good design features

Cons

Poor wire cutter

Video: How to Use an RJ45 Crimp Tool

RJ45 Crimpers

RJ45 Crimper Buyers Guide

As we mentioned in our introduction, this type of electrical work is specialized and not so long back, and it was left to professionals to do it. Things have changed with the introduction of some good value and well-performing tools and some online video tutorials. The price for each device ranges, and it doesn’t necessarily reflect the overall quality or even mean your connection will work. And that can be very frustrating!

Here are a few hints and tips to assist you in making the right purchasing decision.

RJ45 Crimpers

Modular connections

The three connectors your RJ45 crimper will have to be compatible with are the 4, 6, and 8 positions because these are the most common. Other configurations may mean you’ll need a tool compatible with more than the basic positions but look for a tool that can first work with the basic connectors.

Traditionally, you used RJ-45 cables on telephones and voice transfer, but technological advancements now mean their use is expanded. This means there are now category five and six connections, so make sure the crimper you buy is suitable for the connection you’re using.

Size

The head of an RJ45 crimper is larger than the handle, and sometimes this can obscure your view, making it much more challenging to see your work. Network cabling is a refined skill and sometimes done in confined spaces, so if you have that requirement, look for a small and compact tool.

Comfort

Some crimpers we reviewed came with a ratchet, allowing you to control the knobs’ tension better. This can be a good feature for a beginner as it’s too easy to cut the wire entirely instead of slicing it!

Type of cables

Some crimpers can work on round and flat cables, but you will need to check their specification if you need both, as not all models are compatible.

Price

As with any tool, the purchase price is a factor as we all have a budget. We have found good models at low and high price brackets, and a high-priced item does not guarantee the crimper is better. Take, for example, the Klein tools crimper, where the cutter was pretty poor. This model was towards the more expensive end, and while it has excellent features, you’d expect it to be better at cutting than it is.

Ethernet crimping is delicate work, and our advice is to know precisely the type of work you need it for, how often you’ll be using it, and buy the model that fits your needs.

RJ45 Crimpers

Conclusion

Platinum Tools 100054C

Buy on Amazon

We tested 5 RJ45 crimpers and wrote detailed reports on each one. We liked all of them, and they had good and bad points. Our Best Overall award went to Platinum Tools EZ-Rjpro, and the Best Value we gave to PETECHTOOL RJ45 Crimper Tool.

PETECHTOOL RJ45 Crimp Tool

Buy on Amazon

As always, we hope you liked our reviews and buyers guide, which has given you the confidence to buy the proper RJ-45 crimper. If you have any questions or need any other information, we’ll be glad to help. Just send us a message from the Contact Us form.

Here are some other articles you may like:

Best Wire Cutters – Reviews and Buyers Guide

Best Needle Nose Pliers – Reviews & Buyers Guide

Safety Wire Pliers – Reviews

9 Different Types of Pliers – Which One is Right For You?

Compare to other pliers:

CLICK any image to see Ratings & Reviews on Amazon

Image	Model	Price	Walts Rating
Top	SK Tools Model SKT-7208	Check Price	4.9 / 5 (Best Overall)
	Stanley 84-026	Check Price	4.7 / 5 (Best Value)
	IRWIN VISE-GRIP Pliers Set	Check Price	4.5 / 5
	Channellock 526	Check Price	4.3 / 5
	CRAFTSMAN Pliers	Check Price	4.3 / 5

Walts DIY is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you.

Author
Recent Posts

Walter Snyder

Hi there! My name’s Walter Snyder and I write for WaltsDIY.com.
When I’m not testing and reviewing tools, you’ll find me in front of a hot BBQ, cold drink in hand, cooking up something big, and spending quality time with my wife and two boys. I’m also often found in my workshop working on my next project!